Ouch? The new iPad can get as hot as 116 degrees, 12 degrees hotter than the iPad 2, but far cooler than many conventional desktop computers. Spencer Platt/Getty Images

March 21, 2012

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The new iPad can get "significantly hotter" than earlier models, says Donna L. Tapellini at Consumer Reports. How much hotter? The device's surface can reach 116 degrees Fahrenheit when the iPad is plugged in and running graphics-intensive games, a 12-degree jump from the iPad 2. "When it was at its hottest, it felt very warm, but not especially uncomfortable if held for a brief period," says Tapellini. Does Apple have the next "AntennaGate" on its hands — or is this much ado about nothing?

But you can see why people are worried: The iPad can get a little hot to the touch, says Jared Newman at TIME. After an hour of game-playing, my tablet was uncomfortably warm on one side, but the problem wasn't so glaring that I'd switch to a competitor's product. And, of course, some consumers are just inclined to find fault. The original iPad, iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4, and iPhone 4S all provoked similar heat complaints. "Either Apple has a longstanding problem with overheating products, or people always find some way to complain.""Heat test: New iPad is hotter to handle by 10 degrees"